Jagdalpur, May 18 (UNI) Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma on Sunday launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, saying the Gandhi scion lacks a clear policy on Naxalism and often works behind the scenes to undermine efforts.

Addressing the media, Sharma said that while Naxalites are surrendering in Telangana, security forces face challenges in some areas due to lack of cooperation.

He appealed to Rahul Gandhi to adopt a clear stance on Naxalism, which he termed as a major national problem, and support its solution.

Sharma emphasised that the government is willing to hold talks, but the Naxalites must first lay down their arms.

"Talks can't be held with those sitting in Hyderabad; we can only talk to those who abandon guns," he said.

He criticised Naxalites for sending their children to study abroad while denying education to children in Bastar, and for targeting schools to keep the region's youth in darkness.

Sharma claimed that Bastar will be completely freed from armed Naxalites by March 2026.

The government aims to bring development, ensure schemes reach every village, and establish peace in Bastar.

Sharma announced that the Bade Satti panchayat in Sukma district has been declared Naxal-free and allocated Rs 1 crore for development projects, including connectivity, electricity, and mobile towers.

Sharma urged Naxalites involved in activities like Jan Militia and Janatana Sarkar to surrender, assuring them that their panchayats will benefit from government schemes.

He reiterated that the government seeks a solution, not confrontation.

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